Vetted Solutions Finds New Leader for the American Brain Tumor Association

May 21, 2018 – The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA), a national advocacy organization committed to funding brain tumor research and providing education and information on all tumor types, has named Ralph DeVitto as its new president and CEO. Vetted Solutions’ president and founder Jim Zaniello and vice president Catherine Brown led the assignment.

The organization was a seeking an executive with a combination of leadership experience in a non-profit organization, professional association or academic setting with a focus on brain tumors or a related field, said the search firm. Mr. DeVitto fit that mold.

“Ralph’s leadership skills, fundraising capabilities, and strategic drive make him the perfect choice to lead ABTA into the next phase of its development as we work to increase our reach and impact,” said Brian Olson, ABTA board chair. “We’re thrilled to welcome Ralph aboard.”

Experienced Leader

Mr. DeVitto brings extensive experience in association management, including strategic planning, fundraising, volunteer mobilization and partnership building. Previously, he served in numerous leadership roles during his 21 years with the American Cancer Society, including the CEO of the Florida division and the interim executive vice president of the Southeast region, where he oversaw the merger of operations in five states and Puerto Rico to create the region.

In his new role, Mr. DeVitto will be responsible for leading ABTA’s dedicated staff, while increasing the value of the organization to patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, scientists, donors, sponsors, partners and other key influencers. He will enhance ABTA’s already strong reputation as the go-to source on brain tumor related science and treatments, and lead efforts to further develop learning resources, tools, and activities related to information availability and treatment for patients, survivors, and caregivers.

“The mission-driven work and the support that ABTA offers the brain tumor community were the driving forces behind my decision to join this organization,” said Mr. DeVitto. “I will make sure ABTA takes every opportunity to engage the healthcare community, survivors, caregivers and patients, when they are ready, to work together in this fight.”

Founded in 1973, the non-profit ABTA is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of brain tumors with the goals of improving, extending and, ultimately, saving the lives of those affected by brain tumors. The organization accomplishes its mission through an extensive patient education and support program and an active grant-making process.

Mr. Zaniello has worked for more than two decades in positions ranging from non-profit executive director to publisher of a leading tool for non-profit executive search. He is also said to have an intimate understanding of the complex demands of the executive office through his own experience as executive director at several associations and non-profits.

Ms. Brown, for her part, brings a deep knowledge of both association and philanthropic organization management. Most recently, she served as president of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. In addition to more than 35 years of experience in the non-profit sector, she has held positions at the executive level in the hospitality and meetings industries.